How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays

Between your work holiday party, baked goods, hot chocolate, cocktail parties and big family dinners, the holidays are notorious for expanding waistbands. It’s easy to fall into bad habits over the holidays. I’m definitely guilty of over-eating and over-indulging, but when you’re surrounded by it all, it’s tough!

Our fridge and pantry are currently filled with a honey-baked ham, fresh bread, caramels and cakes making it too easy to just walk by and grab a little snack. We’ve been spending a lot of time just hanging out around the house, and boredom can quickly turn into snacking if I’m not paying attention.

There’s a few simple rules that I try to stick to during the holidays to keep myself on track and make those New Year’s resolutions a little bit easier come January 2016.

Drink More Water

I’ll admit that I’m not the best about drinking lots of water, but I’m working on it. When I’m really hungry, I always drink a big glass of water. I typically realize that I’m not quite as hungry as I thought and keeps me from over-eating. I also try to drink a glass of water between each glass of wine or cocktail when I’m out. Not only will it save you from a massive hangover, but it keeps you hydrated too. I’ve also noticed that if I drink more water, I’m less likely to feel tired and groggy.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

If I start my morning with a healthy breakfast, I tend to make healthier decisions all day. It kick starts your metabolism too and that’s key to keeping excess weight off. My go-to is a vegetable omelet or scramble with a slice of Canadian bacon.

Cut Back During the Week

We try to cut back on the wine and heavy foods during the week to balance out parties and outings. I’ll admit, this is a tough one for me. Especially when I’m with my sisters! We don’t get to see each other often, so many nights end in sipping wine and talking by the fire in to the wee hours of the night. Cutting back on this and going to be earlier will be my goal for the rest of the week (wish me luck)!

Skip the Sweets

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Usually I’m not big on sweets, but the holidays is the one time I find myself far more tempted than ever when I’m home — probably because so many people drop off sweet goodies! I also have a soft spot for caramels.

Go for a Night Walk

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Yes, it is a lot colder outside (actually it’s been pretty warm in Texas), but bundling up and going for a walk not only keeps you active, but let’s you admire the Christmas lights in your neighborhood. It’s peaceful and fun and Oliver loves it too!

Use The Smaller Plate

Whether you’re at a party or at home, always opt for the salad plate instead of the dinner plate before you hit the buffet or serve yourself. The small plate looks more full with less food and keeps you from piling on extras. Still hungry? Wait 15 minutes before you head back. It takes your brain a bit to realize your stomach is full.

I’ll be home for another week which means all the tempting goodies will be around for another week! Thankfully my family is also pretty active and Oliver is here which means I’ll be going on walks too. It’s definitely tough to stay healthy this time of year, but not impossible! What tricks do you have for staying healthy during the holidays?

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Hi, I’m Blair

Welcome to The Fox & She! A blog designed to enourage and empower women to not only dream of a life they want, but to take action and go get it! I’m Blair and I believe that all women deserve to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin, and deserve a life filled with peace, happiness, fun, good health, loving relationships, and work they love.READ MORE >

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